Over seven years have passed since the collapse of auto component supplier Takata, yet the repercussions of their defective airbags continue to plague the automotive industry. Recently, BMW announced a recall of 1,145 vehicles for airbag inspections, following an earlier recall this month involving nearly 400,000 cars.
The initial recall primarily concerned various 3-Series sedan and wagon models manufactured between 2005 and 2012, specifically those equipped with M Sport steering wheels. However, the latest recall campaign broadens its scope, impacting not only 3-Series owners but also targeting a range of more upscale BMW models produced in subsequent years. These include the 4-Series, 5-Series, 6-Series, M4, X3, and X5.
BMW has identified these vehicles as potentially being fitted with a PSDI-X inflator, a component already recalled in 2023. The automaker warns that an inflator explosion could cause metal fragments to be ejected from the steering wheel, posing a serious threat to both drivers and passengers. Despite this risk, BMW advises that owners can continue driving their cars until they receive an official recall notice, expected to be sent out in early September. Once notified, owners will be able to schedule an appointment at a local dealership to have the hazardous airbag replaced at no cost.
Takata, once a dominant player in the airbag market with an estimated 20% share, has left a trail of devastation across multiple automakers, including Chrysler, Ford, Honda, Nissan, and Toyota. The fallout has led to the recall of over 100 million vehicles worldwide. Tragically, faulty Takata airbags have been linked to 33 fatalities, 24 of which occurred in the United States. The most recent death took place in 2022, when the airbag in a 2002 Honda Accord ruptured, sending shrapnel into the driver's face in Kentucky. Notably, this particular vehicle had been under recall for 11 years, and Honda had reportedly made more than 300 attempts to reach the owner through phone calls, emails, and postal mail.
This ongoing crisis underscores the persistent danger posed by Takata airbags and the critical importance of addressing these defects promptly. Automakers like BMW are taking necessary steps to mitigate risks by expanding recalls and ensuring that potentially hazardous components are identified and replaced. The challenge remains to effectively communicate these recalls to vehicle owners and ensure compliance.
For BMW, the latest recall reflects their commitment to safety and their responsibility to rectify issues stemming from Takata’s faulty products. As they work through this process, BMW joins the broader effort within the automotive industry to eliminate the lingering threats posed by these defective airbags. The recall process, while inconvenient for owners, is a vital measure to prevent further injuries and fatalities.
BMW’s recent recall of 1,145 vehicles for airbag inspection and replacement is a part of a larger, ongoing effort to address the widespread issue of faulty Takata airbags. This action aims to safeguard drivers and passengers by rectifying a potentially deadly defect, with the company urging owners to respond promptly once they receive their recall notices. The legacy of Takata’s failure continues to influence the industry, highlighting the paramount importance of rigorous quality control and proactive safety measures.